Understanding what factors affect student retention is the first step to determining strategies to combat attrition. Factors include the student's demographic characteristics, including age, ethnicity, gender, educational experience and family's educational background. A student's environment outside of school, including financial status, family support, employment responsibilities, living arrangements and transportation, also play an important role in his dedication to his studies. Enrollment status may also factor into the student's dedication to his education and loyalty to the community college nursing program. Watch the student's attendance, study skills, class schedule and study hours. Identify the school's academic services and how they are used.
In addition to financial services, such as financial aid, grants, scholarships and stipends, nursing students need access to academic services, including an in-depth orientation revealing what the program will entail and what life as a nurse will be like. Newsletters help students feel more attached to the school and the program, and they help students explore new developments in the field. Study groups should be encouraged or set up to promote a community environment and assist students who are struggling. Nursing student resource centers, including success resources, should be set up and staffed so students can easily locate information about their fields. Offer online technology to engage students and provide additional training and support.
Community college nursing programs can provide support for students who graduate with a degree or certification. Opportunities to practice skills, including internships in immunization clinics on campus, prepare students for their future careers. Career advisement and program guidance is a valuable tool that helps students identify their career paths and strategies. Provide support to graduating students through state test preparation courses and programs. Career services, transitional support and referrals help students find jobs after graduation.
Providing opportunities for students to socialize with professionals is vital to professional growth and dedication. Nursing students should be encouraged to join professional organizations and enrichment programs and attend workshops. Peer mentoring and tutoring are additional services that encourage students to remain at the college and in the nursing program. Socialization opportunities help students to feel comfortable in professional settings, expand their knowledge, provide networking opportunities and give them an opportunity to develop a professional nursing attitude.